Sia is known for capturing hearts with her music and lyrics, and now she is bringing that same magic to the theatre stage. The pop icon has expressed her love for the 2017 film “Saturday Church” and has transformed it into an Off-Broadway musical, with exclusive first look photos unveiled. Collaborating with writer Damon Cardasis, Sia has written the music and lyrics for this new stage adaptation, based on Cardasis’s original feature film.
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The musical dives into the story of teenager Ulysses and his quest for acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community through the “Saturday Church” group. Set to open on Sept. 15 at the New York Theatre Workshop, the show has already started its previews, creating buzz among theatre enthusiasts. With additional lyrics by Cardasis and Pulitzer Prize winner James Ijames, and direction by Whitney White, the musical promises to showcase a blend of gospel, house music, and pop, celebrating the power of faith and liberation.
The journey from movie to musical was peppered with Sia’s unwavering support since the film’s inception. In 2018, Sia took to social media to urge her followers to watch “Saturday Church,” commending Cardasis on his work. Her tweet sparked a series of events that eventually led to the birth of the stage adaptation. Cardasis, overwhelmed by Sia’s praise, found himself on a path to turning his film into a musical, with the dream of collaborating with the iconic artist.
The process of bringing Sia onboard was a whirlwind of excitement for Cardasis. From his agent’s connection to Sia’s producer giving an instant nod, everything fell into place seamlessly. The collaboration between Cardasis and Sia was marked by a creative synergy, as they delved into the singer’s extensive music collection to curate the perfect soundtrack for the stage. Grammy winner Honey Dijon also contributed additional music to the production, adding layers of depth to the musical experience.
The cast of “Saturday Church” boasts a talented ensemble that includes Anania, Primo Thee Ballerino, Bryson Battle, Veyonce Deleon, and Tony winner J. Harrison Ghee, among others. The production team, with Cardasis at the helm, praises the contributions of James Ijames and Whitney White, highlighting their unique talents and vision. The show’s diverse casting, mainly featuring Black and LGBTQ+ actors, adds an authentic touch to the narrative, weaving a tapestry of stories and experiences. Cardasis hopes this representation will resonate with the audience and convey a message of hope and love.
For Cardasis, the underlying theme of acceptance and community shines through in “Saturday Church.” He believes that amidst challenging times filled with divisive rhetoric, the show serves as a beacon of positivity and inclusivity. The musical aims to remind people that love can conquer all and that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. With a powerful message of unity and support, “Saturday Church” is set to inspire and uplift audiences with its heartfelt storytelling.
Tickets for “Saturday Church” are now available for purchase until Oct. 19, offering theatre enthusiasts a chance to witness the magic of Sia’s music and Cardasis’s storytelling come to life on stage. As the theatrical adaptation unfolds, audiences can expect a vibrant celebration of faith, love, and the unbreakable human spirit, delivered through a compelling narrative and soul-stirring performances.